NSA Ribadu Holds Security Talks with U.S. Lawmakers

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, on Sunday hosted a high-level delegation of U.S. lawmakers in Abuja, signaling a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral security cooperation. The visit follows recent discussions in Washington aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism and regional security efforts.

The five-member delegation comprises Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart, Norma Torres, Scott Franklin, Juan Ciscomani, and Riley Moore, who are in Nigeria on a fact-finding mission. Their visit is intended to assess ongoing security reforms in the country and explore avenues for deeper collaboration between the United States and Nigeria.

Speaking during the meeting, Ribadu highlighted the importance of shared commitment in tackling emerging security threats across West Africa. “Our partnership with the United States is crucial in maintaining regional stability and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to respond to terrorism and transnational criminal networks,” he said.

The NSA also briefed the delegation on the progress of Nigeria’s security agencies, including efforts to modernize intelligence gathering, enhance coordination among law enforcement agencies, and improve the protection of critical infrastructure. According to Ribadu, sustained collaboration and information sharing between Nigeria and the U.S. are key to confronting evolving threats in the region.

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The U.S. lawmakers, for their part, expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s ongoing reforms and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue. They noted that the fact-finding mission provides an opportunity to better understand the security landscape in Nigeria and identify ways in which U.S. support can be more effectively aligned with local priorities.

The meeting also included discussions on humanitarian assistance and stabilization initiatives in areas affected by conflict, reflecting the broader scope of Nigeria-U.S. engagement beyond counter-terrorism. The delegation was accompanied by the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the engagement.

Observers say the visit signals a renewed chapter in U.S.-Nigeria security relations, particularly at a time when both nations face complex threats from terrorism, organized crime, and other transnational security challenges. Analysts expect the dialogue to lead to enhanced cooperation in intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint operational strategies in the months ahead.

As the delegation continues its fact-finding mission across Nigeria, officials hope that the visit will translate into concrete actions to strengthen security institutions, protect citizens, and advance regional stability.